Take It to God

Read: Hebrews 4:14-16

Bryson wrote something on a piece of paper, then crumpled it up and threw it in the trash can. He did this several times, and before long he was out of paper. He laid his head on his desk in frustration.

Just then Mom walked by. “What’s wrong, Bryson?”

“I’m all out of paper. Can we go to the store so I can get some more?”

Mom glanced at the crumpled balls of paper in and around the trash can. “What are you trying to write?”

“Our Sunday school teacher challenged us to write an encouraging letter to someone. I immediately thought of Dylan. He’s been really upset lately about his parents getting a divorce. So I’ve been trying to write him a letter, but everything I write sounds dumb.” Bryson picked up a ball of paper and handed it to his mother. “You can read one of my attempts if you want.”

Mom uncrumpled the paper. “Hey, Dylan. Sorry your parents are getting a divorce. Hope you have a good day anyway.”

“See, Mom? Everything sounds so dumb, and I don’t know what I can say to make Dylan feel better. I have no idea what he’s going through, but I know it must be hard.” Bryson sighed. “And now I’m all out of paper.”

“I’m sorry, Bryson,” Mom said. “I have no idea how to make paper, so I can’t help you.”

Bryson frowned. “Mom, I don’t need you to make me paper. I just need you to take me to a place where I can get some.”

Mom nodded. “You’re exactly right—and it’s the same with Dylan. He doesn’t need you to solve his problems. He just needs you to take them to someone who can—God. Jesus understands what Dylan is going through and loves him so much that He suffered and died to save him. He knows exactly what Dylan needs. The biggest encouragement you can give Dylan is to tell him you’re praying for him and then do it.” She smiled. “I’ll pick up some more paper at the store tomorrow. In the meantime, why don’t you take Dylan’s problems to Jesus in prayer?”

Bryson nodded, and after Mom left, he bowed his head and said a prayer for Dylan.

–Melissa Yeagle

How About You? Do you know someone who’s going through a hard time? Even though you may want to, you can’t solve everyone’s problems. The best thing you can do for a friend in need is take their problems to God in prayer. He may direct you to help them in other ways too, but ultimately He’s the only one able to give them what they need. Encourage your friend by letting them know you’re praying for them.

Today's Key Verse: God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1 (NLT)

Today's Key Thought: Pray for those who are hurting